Five of the best… Arabic restaurants

With National Day approaching, be adventurous and take the time to sample some Emirati cuisine this week.

If you are new to the region, you may want to try various Arabic dishes before going for country specialities. Here are our recommendations.

Al Makan

Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

Located in the popular tourist hotspot, Al Makan offers a selection of authentic local fare for very reasonable prices.

Popular Emirati cuisine choices include the yarish soup, faga fish and khabissa.

- Call: 04 368 6593

Al Areesh

Al Boom Tourist Village, Dubai

Less flashy, but thankfully, food quality is not compromised.

Al Areesh offers an impressive selection of grills and seafood, including Emirati specialities.

- Call: 04 438 8888

Na3Na3

The Address, Dubai Mall

Pronounced neaa-neaa (which means 'mint' in Arabic), Downtown Burj Dubai's newest hotspot offers a grand selection of Arabic dishes, including popular Emirati choices.

- Call: 04 438 8888

Bait Al Wakeel

Bur Dubai Creek

One of Dubai's best-kept secrets comes in the form of Bait Al Wakeel, which offers delicious food and stunning views of old parts of the emirate.

The eatery specialises in seafood dishes, so go for something from the Gulf, like hammour.

- Call: 04 353 0530

Local House

Bastikiya, Bur Dubai

Another relatively hidden hangout comes in the form of the Local House, which is located between the various art houses in the popular Bastikiya area.

If you're up for it, try the camel curry. Surprisingly good.

- Call: 050 734 9926

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